THE Tanzania Cotton Board (TCB) has projected a significant increase in cotton production for the current cultivation season, expecting a total of 500,000 tonnes, more than three times the 149,000 tonnes produced last season.

Edward Nyawile, TCB Senior Agriculture Officer, revealed the forecast in an exclusive interview with this paper at the weekend. 

Nyawile attributed the increase to various government strategies, including enhancement of extension services, which saw the recruitment of 740 new officers under the government's "Building a Better Tomorrow: Youth Initiative for Agriculture" drive.

The government has also selected eight key cotton-producing districts which account for over 70 percent of the country’s cotton output each season. The districts are Bariadi, Itilima, Maswa, Meatu, Busega, Igunga, Bunda, and Kishapu.

Nyawile highlighted that the government has provided 400 tractors across the districts, allowing farmers to pay half of the cost when the tractors are used to plough their fields. This initiative is a significant relief for farmers.

In addition, the government has procured 60 drones for spraying cotton farms across the country, a move aimed at combating insect infestations and encouraging farmers to expand their cotton farms, further boosting production.

TCB also focuses on sustainable farming practices, planning to increase the use of bio-fertilizers and distribute 12 million litres of insecticides to farmers nationwide during the current crop season.

Nyawile emphasised that the introduction of technology for insect control will significantly enhance cotton production and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

TCB has identified 5,200 lead farmers who will be responsible for educating their peers on best practices for cotton cultivation. As part of this initiative, 2,500 bicycles have been distributed to farmers to support their outreach efforts and increase cotton production for economic development.